German Phrase
Ja, du kannst mit dem Handy zahlen.
Meaning
This phrase is a direct and common way to confirm that mobile payment is an option. It literally translates to "Yes, you can with the mobile phone pay," indicating the possibility of using a smartphone for transactions. It's a very practical phrase for everyday situations when discussing payment methods.
When to use
You would use this phrase when someone asks if they can pay using their mobile phone, for example, at a store, restaurant, or ticket machine. It's a polite and straightforward answer to confirm the availability of this payment method, often in an informal setting.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Jadukannstmitdem Handyzahlen
Ja
This is the simple German word for 'yes', used to affirm a statement or answer a question positively.
du
'Du' is the informal singular form of 'you' in German. It's used when addressing friends, family, children, or people you know well. For formal situations, 'Sie' would be used.
kannst (können)
'Kannst' is the conjugation of the modal verb 'können' (to be able to, can) for 'du'. Modal verbs always send the main verb (in this case, 'zahlen') to the end of the sentence in its infinitive form.
mit
'Mit' is a preposition meaning 'with'. It is always followed by a noun or pronoun in the dative case. Here, it indicates the means by which something is done.
dem Handy
'Handy' is the common German word for 'mobile phone' (neuter gender: das Handy). 'Dem' is the dative definite article for neuter nouns, required because 'mit' takes the dative case.
zahlen
'Zahlen' is the infinitive verb 'to pay'. Due to the modal verb 'kannst', it is placed at the very end of the sentence.
🗨In Conversation
Entschuldigung, kann ich hier mit dem Handy zahlen?
Excuse me, can I pay with my phone here?
Ja, du kannst mit dem Handy zahlen.
Yes, you can pay with your phone.
✕Common Mistakes
Ja, du kannst zahlen mit dem Handy.
In German, when a modal verb (like 'kannst') is used, the main verb ('zahlen') goes to the very end of the sentence.
Ja, du kannst auf dem Handy zahlen.
The correct preposition for 'with' when referring to an instrument or means is 'mit', which always takes the dative case. 'Auf' means 'on'.
↔Alternatives
Ja, das geht mit dem Handy.
Yes, that works with the phone.
Klar, Sie können mobil bezahlen.
Sure, you can pay mobile. (More formal)
Ja, Handyzahlung ist möglich.
Yes, mobile payment is possible.
Cultural Tip
While mobile payment is gaining traction, cash (Bargeld) is still very prevalent in Germany, and card payments are common. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay are becoming more widespread, especially in larger cities and modern establishments, but it's always good to check for the relevant symbols or ask, as not all places accept it. This phrase is informal, suitable for friends or younger service staff.